Paul Ray Earl Sr. passed on January 8, 2026, with family by his side at home in Hastings, MI. Paul was born to his late parents Lynn and Leola (LaGrange) Earl on December 25, 1942, in Allegan, MI. After graduating from Allegan High School, Paul would start working at the local dealership Weber Buick, then started his faithful career in 1962 until retirement in 2002 as the boiler operator and also a part of the maintenance team at the Rock-Tenn Papermill (a.k.a. Westrock) in Otsego, MI. While attending the Allegan County Fair, he met his first wife Joyce and would marry in 1964, sharing 33 years together before her passing. After many years later, Paul would meet his current wife Mary (Kettle) Earl and share 25 years together. Paul was an educated instructor and excellent shot, enjoyed teaching gun safety at the Fennville Rod and Gun Club to the youth. One of his students would go on to compete on an Olympic level. He was also a Michigan United Conservation Club Secretary and Vice President, advocating protection of Michigan's natural resources, outdoor heritage with pride. When he wasn't working, he was deep in the woods hunting, on the lakes fishing, or just being in the beautiful Allegan State Game Area (over 50k acres). When he made his way home, time with the grandkids gave him much joy. He loved his family more than anything and left a lasting impression on anyone he encountered.

He is survived by his wife Mary (Kettle) Earl; children Paul Earl Jr., Mark (Kim) Earl, Michelle (Mark) Colbath, and Jenee (Eric) Phillips; brother David Earl; 9 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his first wife and parents; daughter Brenda Earl and daughter in law Jennifer Earl; siblings Robert Earl and Nancy Wolf.

Paul's Funeral Service will be from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM with an hour's visitation beforehand from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM on Friday, January 16, at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, located at 528 Trowbridge Street, Allegan, MI, 49010. Private family graveside following the service at Poplar Hill. Luncheon details to be announced after the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paul's name to the Capital Area Sportsmen's League at 7534 Old River Trail, Lansing, MI 48917.